Mine Rescue Operations

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Captain in a mine rescue operation?

Leading the team into unexplored areas

Controlling the scene and ensuring MERP is initiated

Assisting with casualty extrication and first aid

Resuming responsibility of leading the team when circumstances permit (correct)

What is the first step in the response process of a mine rescue operation?

Preparation and ensuring equipment is in its designated location (correct)

Accountability for responding rescue team members

Establishing communication within the rescue team

Safe travel to the incident scene

Who is responsible for ensuring the safety of bystanders during a mine rescue operation?

The Vice-Captain

Command structure

The Captain

Mine rescue members (correct)

What is the estimated increase in predicted survival time when survivors huddle together?

50% Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the MERP in a mine rescue operation?

To initiate the response process Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Vice-Captain during a mine rescue operation?

Leading the team in retreat for short distances through areas already explored Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of electrical fatalities?

Current Signup and view all the answers

What happens to a person exposed to household voltages?

They suffer a muscle spasm and become locked-on to the electrical source Signup and view all the answers

What is the last step in the response process of a mine rescue operation?

Arrival at the scene and establishing accountability Signup and view all the answers

What is a common injury resulting from exposure to a large electric arc?

Serious eye damage from ultraviolet rays Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical aspect of the accountability process during a mine rescue operation?

Accounting for responding rescue team members first Signup and view all the answers

Why is prompt medical treatment necessary for electrical energy casualties?

To treat cardiac arrest and internal organ damage Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of the decision-making process during a mine rescue operation?

To ensure the safety of self and team, casualties, and bystanders Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a floatation device in water?

To provide upper-body buoyancy Signup and view all the answers

What happens to a person exposed to very high voltages, such as from power lines?

They are quickly blown clear of the circuit with minimal internal damage Signup and view all the answers

What is a factor that affects the severity of electrical injury?

Both voltage and current Signup and view all the answers

What is essential to assure that protective equipment provides optimum protection?

Extensive training Signup and view all the answers

What type of protection is NOT mentioned in the text?

Abdominal protection Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration when choosing a fresh-air base/zone?

Proximity to the incident Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of an underground fresh-air base?

The travel way to the surface must always be assured of good air Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a purpose of a fresh-air base/zone?

Treating medical emergencies Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration when selecting equipment for different situations?

Type of situation Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of a fresh-air base/zone?

Good respirable air Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for equipment used in mine rescue operations?

It must meet relevant health and safety legislation Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary responsibility of Mine Rescue team members during an emergency response?

Ensuring the safety of their team and themselves Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial aspect of being part of a Mine Rescue team?

Maintaining a regime of practice with fellow Mine Rescuers Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for Mine Rescue teams to prioritize their safety?

Because Mine Rescue work can be dangerous if not performed properly Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the committee that created this manual?

To make certain the information is reliable, applicable, and safe Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary step to ensure safety before rescuers can extinguish a fire?

Complete electrical energy isolation and lockout Signup and view all the answers

What might Mine Rescue teams encounter during emergency responses?

A range of incidents and emergencies, including electrical fires, gas leaks, avalanches, and motor vehicle accidents Signup and view all the answers

What can occur when someone uses electrical equipment improperly?

An arc flash hazard can exist Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential scenario for Mine Rescue teams?

Assisting in responses at other mining operations or responding to emergencies off-site Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern when a vehicle is in contact with a live wire?

Electrocution, even when wearing rubber gloves Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for Mine Rescue teams to establish?

Cohesion, communication, and trust Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of wearing the 'MINE RESCUE' sticker on the hat?

It denotes the team's pride and responsibility Signup and view all the answers

What should emergency personnel do when a fallen wire lies across a vehicle with occupants?

Instruct occupants to stay where they are until electrical crews arrive Signup and view all the answers

When can enclosed energized equipment pose an arc flash hazard?

When improperly installed or maintained Signup and view all the answers

What should the operator do when a fallen wire lies under their vehicle?

Instruct the operator to move the vehicle clear of the wire, and clear of any pools of water Signup and view all the answers

Why should emergency personnel avoid standing in a dangerous location?

To avoid being injured if the wire springs up Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of emergency personnel in situations involving live wires and vehicles?

To ensure the safety of everyone involved Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Responsibilities of the Vice-Captain

The Vice-Captain may lead retreats through previously explored areas.
Should not enter unexplored areas; the Captain resumes leadership when conditions allow.

Mine Rescue Decision-Making Processes

Mine rescue teams may be the first responders at incidents and face demanding responsibilities.
Key tasks include scene control, initiating the Mine Emergency Response Plan (MERP), ensuring safety for all, assisting with casualty extraction and first aid, fire fighting, and chemical spill control.

Response and Size-Up

Response initiates when a rescue team is alerted; it includes safe travel to the incident and securing equipment.
Preparation involves ensuring equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) are ready and familiarizing with response procedures.
Communication is vital, both within the team and with the command structure.
Travel to incidents must prioritize safety, including seatbelt use and adherence to site-specific rules.
Upon arrival, accountability for team members and incident personnel is critical under command structure.

Importance of Protective Equipment

Extensive training is necessary for effective use of protective equipment.
All equipment must comply with health and safety regulations.
Types of protective equipment include head, eye, face, hearing, respiratory, hand, and foot protection, along with specialized tools.

Fresh-Air Base/Zone

A fresh-air base/zone is crucial for ensuring a continuous supply of respirable air for the rescue team.
Should feature good lighting, safety, and adequate space for team operations and debriefing.
The location should prioritize air quality and proximity to the incident, significantly affecting predicted survival times.

Huddle Position for Survival

Huddling together can increase survival time by up to 50% in cold conditions by conserving body heat.
Effective positioning minimizes heat loss among survivors.

Electrical Hazard Awareness

Injuries from electrical hazards depend on current (amperage) and voltage effects.
Household voltage can lead to muscle spasms and prolonged contact, whereas high voltages may cause severe burns and lesser internal damage.
Quick medical treatment is essential for electrical injury victims.
Types of incidents requiring mine rescue include electrical fires, gas leaks, and vehicle accidents.

Safety and Training

Rescuers must prioritize their safety and the safety of their team while assisting casualties.
Mine Rescue training is ongoing and requires regular practice to build cohesion and communication.
Commitment to training and response readiness is necessary for effective teamwork in emergencies.

Electrical Arc Flash Hazards

Arc flash hazards occur with exposed energized electrical conductors.
Proper use and maintenance of electrical equipment mitigate risks under normal operation.

Emergency Protocol for Vehicles Near Live Wires

Instruct vehicle occupants to remain still until electrical crews arrive if a live wire is present.
Ensure the vehicle operator moves the vehicle clear only if they are unhurt.
Avoid touching the vehicle as it may lead to electrocution, even with protective gear in place.

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Description

Learn about the hazards and challenges faced by Mine Rescue teams, including electrical fires, gas leaks, and avalanches. Understand the importance of safety protocols and casualty care in emergency response situations.